The Milwaukee Brewers and Minnesota Twins are currently the leaders in their respective central divisions. Both the National and American League Central Divisions have a reputation of being weaker this year. Despite this one team from each division will emerge and make the playoffs.
With trade rumors starting to heat up across the league the two bordering states could look to swap players that would benefit both sides. Milwaukee’s bullpen was revamped this offseason and has overall been pretty good this year, but there also have been a lot of relievers who have come and gone this season. Relief pitching is always a need and the Brewers could look to add from the Twins bullpen by giving them pieces that they need in return.
Currently Minnesota does not have a left-handed starting pitcher and infielder Jorge Polanco has been battling on and off hamstring issues. They could look to add a southpaw to their team as well as an impact infielder. Their offense has been an issue so acquiring a steady bat will be a priority this summer.
Trade proposal between the Milwaukee Brewers and Minnesota Twins results in a win-win for both teams.
Proposed Trade:
Milwaukee Brewers receive:
- RHP Griffin Jax
- LHP Caleb Thielbar
Minnesota Twins receive:
- LHP Eric Lauer
- INF Luis Urias
Milwaukee acquired both Eric Lauer and Luis Urias in a trade with the San Diego Padres in 2019, so packaging them together to the Twins would be a strange parallel. While the Twins could utilize both of their services, Milwaukee is in a position in which parting ways with both of them would open up more opportunities for others.
Starting pitchers Julio Teheran and Colin Rea have shown that they not only belong in the rotation but the big leagues as well. Parting ways with Eric Lauer would allow for both of them to continue with this until Brandon Woodruff and Wade Miley return from injury. Additionally the Brewers have received exceptional play from infielders Owen Miller and Brian Anderson. This makes Urias somewhat more expendable in this trade scenario.
From the Twins standpoint losing two bullpen arms would be tough. Griffin Jax has six holds for them this year, but a 4.15 ERA through 26 innings. Caleb Thielbar, who was originally drafted by the Brewers in 2009, has been good in his opportunities this year, but after a trade like this their is no doubt subsequent deals by the Twins would have to be made in order to add new bullpen pieces.
Contract wise Eric Lauer and Caleb Thielbar are under control until the conclusion of the 2024 season. Luis Urias has one additional year after that and Griffin Jax is still in pre-arbitration. Baseball Values trade simulator has the Brewers slightly winning this trade with a value of 27.20 and the Twins 26.30.
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